Students in Grong face challenges and opportunities in new independent living arrangements in Norway

In Mathea Finvold Mikkelsen’s class at Grong High School in Trøndelag, almost every student lives in rented accommodation, including Mathea herself. The move was motivated by practical reasons, such as avoiding at least two hours of bus travel each day. Mikkelsen describes the transition: “You suddenly have responsibility for everything yourself. It’s a big adjustment; there’s no one looking after you.”

More students may soon be facing similar changes due to recent plans by the Innlandet County Municipality to close several high schools in response to low enrollments and financial challenges. This could force students to relocate against their will. “I don’t think I would have been happy about that,” says Iver Leivestad Mork, reflecting on the potential upheaval.

On the other hand, 16-year-olds Henrik Løvås Eiken and Iver Leivestad Mork chose to move three hours north to Grong voluntarily to pursue their passion for volleyball. They find joy in the independence: “It was a bit stressful, but we were mostly excited. It’s more fun to have control over everything.”

For these students, managing their monthly stipend and waking up on time are the main challenges, but they report that everything is going well overall. According to education researcher Thomas Nordahl, living independently can greatly benefit young people: “They learn responsibility and gain control over their lives, becoming both independent and resilient.”

Living in Grong has been carefully planned, and when challenges arise, the students know exactly whom to call for support—typically their parents. School officials strive to ensure that students residing away from home feel supported and connected. Despite occasional feelings of loneliness, students like Mathea look forward to returning home most weekends for comfort and connection.